Ostrich fern

Matteuccia struthiopteris | Also known as: Ostrich-feather fern, Shuttlecock fern | Rating: 1 votes | Print / Pdf

There’s no need to get in a flap when it comes to putting together a garden design. Matteuccia struthiopteris or ostrich fern is a stunning addition that will have all eyes on it thanks to the fantastic rich green fronds that resemble ostrich feathers. These fronds surround smaller brown fronds, which are fertile. Ostrich fern likes partially shaded and fully shaded areas and does well in moist and well-drained loamy, clay or sandy soil. Ostrich fern tolerates wet areas, making this a beautiful option for growing at the side of a pond or stream. This fern creates a lush and mysterious woodland garden and will have people flocking to beds and borders within a cottage garden.

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Plant
Known dangers?
  • no
Height [m]
  • 1.7
Spread [m]
  • 1
Dominant flower colour
  • Inconspicuous or absent
Flower Fragrance
  • No, neutral please
Foliage in spring
  • Green
Foliage in summer
  • Green
Foliage in Autumn
  • Green
Propagation methods
  • division
  • Spores
Growth habit
  • Clump-forming
  • Spreading
Environment
Acidity
  • Acidic
  • Neutral
Hardiness zone
  • Z2-8
Heat zone
  • H8-1
Winter temperatures [°C]
  • -46 - -7
Heat days
  • 0 - 120
Moisture
  • well-drained but frequently watered
  • poorly-drained
Soil type
  • sandy
  • Clay
  • loams
Sun requirements
  • Partial shade
  • Full shade
Exposure
  • Exposed
  • Sheltered
Usage
Standard category
  • Grasses, ferns & bamboo
  • Ferns
Grown for
  • Ornamental Foliage
Creative category
  • Kid Approved
  • For Beginners
  • We love the dark
  • Pond plants
Garden type
  • Bog garden
  • Woodland
  • Cottage garden
  • Pond
Garden spaces
  • Shade
  • Borders
Gardening expertise
  • beginner
Time to reach full size
  • up to 10 years
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